Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c10.36

c10.36

In dealing with foreign affairs, the Purâṇa adopts the precepts of its predecessors. It specifies seven expedients: (1) Sâma or friendly measures, (2) Dâna or payment of money, (3) Bheda or creating dissensions, (4) Mâyâ or stratagem, (5) Indrajâla or deceit, (6) Upekṣâ or indifference, and (7) Danda or war. The Purâṇa would prefer diplomacy to the uncertain chances of war. Hence the importance of envoys. There are three classes of them: (1) Sâsanârhaka, those who are charged simply to deliver a message: (2) Mitrârtha, those who are charged to conduct negotiations according to instructions from headquarters, and (3) Niḥsṛiṣṭârtha or plenipotentiaries, those who are authorised to settle affairs